Israel and Iran Exchange Strikes Amid Rising Tensions
Israel and Iran continued to trade strikes on Friday night and early Saturday morning, with both countries reporting air defense activations and explosions. The escalating military actions have raised international concerns about the potential for a broader conflict in the Middle East.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Friday that an expansion of the Israel-Iran conflict could “ignite a fire no one can control.” He called on both sides and potential parties to the conflict to “give peace a chance.”
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Iran had a “maximum” of two weeks to avoid possible U.S. air strikes, indicating that he could make a decision before the fortnight deadline he set a day earlier.
European powers—including Britain, France, Germany, and the European Union—held talks with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in Geneva. The discussions aimed to ease tensions and find diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation.
China expressed its readiness to continue strengthening communication and coordination with all relevant parties. Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, emphasized China's commitment to building synergies, upholding justice, and playing a constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East.
The international community is keeping a close watch on the developments, urging all parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to avoid further destabilization of the region.
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Live: Latest development in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict
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